Butter Herb Rice Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy-to-Make Dish for Any Occasion

If you're looking for a dish that's both delicious and simple to prepare, look no further than this butter herb rice recipe. This savory dish combines the r……

If you're looking for a dish that's both delicious and simple to prepare, look no further than this butter herb rice recipe. This savory dish combines the rich, creamy flavor of butter with the aromatic essence of fresh herbs, creating a side dish that's perfect for any meal. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a hearty stew, this butter herb rice recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup of long-grain white rice

- 2 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter

- 1 tablespoon of olive oil

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley

- 1 teaspoon of dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Rice**:

- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

2. **Sauté the Aromatics**:

- In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.

- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

3. **Cook the Rice**:

- Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.

- Pour in the chicken broth, and add the dried thyme, parsley, and basil. Stir to combine.

4. **Simmer**:

- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.

5. **Add the Butter**:

- Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.

- Add the butter to the rice and gently fluff with a fork, ensuring that the butter melts and coats the rice evenly.

6. **Season and Serve**:

- Season the rice with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

### Why You'll Love This Recipe:

- **Versatile**: This butter herb rice recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

- **Simple Ingredients**: With ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, this recipe is both budget-friendly and convenient.

- **Quick and Easy**: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.

- **Customizable**: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. You can also add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

### Tips for Success:

- **Use High-Quality Butter**: Since butter is a key ingredient in this recipe, using high-quality, unsalted butter will enhance the flavor of the dish.

- **Fresh Herbs**: While dried herbs are convenient, using fresh herbs can elevate the dish to a whole new level. Consider adding fresh thyme, parsley, or basil if you have them on hand.

- **Resting Time**: Allowing the rice to rest after cooking ensures that it becomes perfectly fluffy and absorbs all the flavors.

In conclusion, this butter herb rice recipe is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. It's an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to add a delicious and easy side dish to their repertoire. Give it a try, and you'll find yourself making it again and again!